Should Texas Parks and Wildlife Ban the Gassing of Rattlesnakes? [POLL]

A proposal to ban the gassing of rattlesnakes is on the table for the Texas Parks and Wildlife. But, there are mixed emotions on this topic because on one hand, the gassing could be hurting the snakes. And, on the other hand, the ban would pretty much kill one of the largest events in Texas – the Sweetwater Rattlesnake Roundup.

Gassing is the process in which fumes are injected into the ground in order to force rattlesnakes out of their den.

According to ABC news, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department say that “the pumping of fumes to force out rattlers also threatens 20 species of endangered animals that live underground”.

In addition, KTXS news reports that a petition is going around urging the ban to happen. In fact, so far 58 biologists, zoologists and ecologists, including nine former or current employees at the Abilene Zoo have signed it.

However the ban could have a direct impact on one of the biggest events in Texas – the Sweetwater Rattlesnake Roundup. The event brings thousands of people from all over the place to see all of the caught rattlesnakes as well as all of the demonstrations like milking, skinning, and cooking the rattlers. In addition, there are several vendors that sell food, drinks and rattlesnake memorabilia – all going into the Sweetwater economy. Not to mention the people that shop in Sweetwater, get gas, or stay in a hotel.

Personally, I can see how Sweetwater can be upset with this proposed ban. But, as an animal lover myself, I can see how gassing the rattlers could not only have an affect on the snakes, but other wildlife as well.

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